On the 18th and 19th of March a FIER partner meeting took place in the sunny town of Dordrecht (NL). Being a city that historically has to deal with floods, Dordrecht provided the partnership with an excellent picture of the flood risks that Dordrecht is facing and how they constantly work to involve citizens to take action, exercise these actions and improve practice where and when needed. Such as the yearly flood risk festival and exercise with citizens to test the water protection screen of their premises.
Cooperation and flood preparedness: insights from Dordrecht
Over two days, partners engaged in knowledge-sharing sessions, explored best practices, and strengthened cooperation on key FIER objectives. The experience of Dordrecht to prepare citizens better for flood events formed the breeding ground for a deep dive into behavioural change with the FIER partners. Patty Kanselaar, strategic communications consultant at Gemeente Dordrecht, provided the partners with a workshop on behaviour: how do we ensure that people not only know what to do, but actually carry out flood preparations?
Moreover, the meeting focused on flood preparedness, evacuation strategies, and post-flood recovery. Special attention was given to Dordrecht’s approach, including the development of safe refuge locations such as De Staart and the future Maasterras. These shelters will serve as vital safe havens during floods and operational centers for emergency response and recovery efforts.
Strengthening partnerships for a resilient north sea region
Additionally, partners all joint in the ‘FIER tradition’ of the transnational speed dates and discussed the development of outputs that are interesting and have value for further uptake, based on the deliverables that they are all working on.
To experience the city from a different perspective, the group enjoyed a boat tour through the beautiful waterways of Dordrecht, the perfect setting to continue conversations and reflect on the day’s insights in a good atmosphere.
With fresh insights and renewed commitment, partners continue to work together towards a safer and more prepared North Sea Region.